Discover Amazonia: Top Movies, TV Series and Books Set There

Amazonia, the world’s largest tropical rainforest, has served as a captivating backdrop for numerous celebrated films, TV shows, and books. Its enchanting landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and rich indigenous culture have inspired storytellers across the globe. This article offers an extensive guide to these famous filming locations, intriguing local myths, and essential travel tips for an unforgettable journey through Amazonia.

Famous Films Shot in Amazonia

Amazonia’s breathtaking scenery and unique biodiversity have made it a popular setting for filmmakers. From action-packed thrillers to heartwarming animations, the rainforest has starred in an array of cinematic creations. The following are some of the most notable films shot in Amazonia:

1. “The Emerald Forest” (1985): Directed by John Boorman, this film tells the story of a young boy kidnapped by an Amazonian tribe. The film used the actual Amazon rainforest for its stunning visuals.
2. “Anaconda” (1997): Directed by Luis Llosa, this horror-thriller features a film crew being hunted by a giant anaconda in the Amazon jungle.
3. “The Mission” (1986): Directed by Roland Joffé, this historical drama about a Spanish Jesuit missionary in the 18th century was shot on location in the Colombian part of Amazonia.
4. “Fitzcarraldo” (1982): Directed by Werner Herzog, this film is about an obsessed opera lover wanting to build an opera house in the middle of the Amazon jungle. Many scenes were filmed in the Peruvian Amazon.
5. “At Play in the Fields of the Lord” (1991): Directed by Héctor Babenco, this film explores the clash between indigenous tribes and outsiders looking to exploit the Amazon rainforest.

TV Shows Set in Amazonia

The lush landscapes and thrilling wildlife of Amazonia have also served as the backdrop for various gripping TV series. Some notable examples include:

1. “Mundo Amazonia” (2021–present): This Brazilian documentary series explores the diverse cultures, species, and landscapes of Amazonia.
2. “Amazon” (1999–2000): This Canadian drama series is about a group of plane crash survivors adapting to life in the remote Amazon jungle.
3. “River Monsters” (2009–2017): Several episodes of this nature documentary series were shot in Amazonia, showing the hunt for ferocious aquatic predators.
4. “Survivor: The Amazon” (2003): The sixth season of this popular reality show was set in the Brazilian Amazon, with contestants navigating the challenging rainforest environment.
5. “The River” (2012): This horror series is about a group searching for a missing TV explorer in the Amazon jungle.

Animated Films Set in Amazonia

The vibrant atmosphere and colorful wildlife of Amazonia have also inspired numerous animated films. These include:

1. “Rio 2” (2014): In this sequel to the hit film “Rio”, the story follows Blu, Jewel, and their three kids as they venture into the wilds of the Amazon rainforest.
2. “The Emperor’s New Groove” (2000): While not explicitly set in Amazonia, this film draws heavily from Inca and Amazonian cultures.
3. “Dora and the Lost City of Gold” (2019): This live-action adaptation of the popular animated series features scenes set in the depths of the Amazon rainforest.

Famous Books Set in Amazonia

Amazonia’s mystique has also found its way into literature, with numerous authors using the rainforest as a setting for their tales. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in Amazonia:

Classic Books

1. “The Lost World” by Arthur Conan Doyle: This novel follows an expedition to a plateau in Amazonia, where prehistoric creatures are discovered.
2. “Journey to the River Sea” by Eva Ibbotson: Set in the early 20th century, the novel tells the story of an orphan girl moving to a remote Amazonian estate.
3. “The Poisonwood Bible” by Barbara Kingsolver: This novel explores the experiences of a missionary family in the Congo, drawing several parallels to the cultural and environmental issues in Amazonia.

Contemporary Books

1. “State of Wonder” by Ann Patchett: This novel weaves a tale of a pharmacologist journeying into the Amazon rainforest in search of her former mentor.
2. “The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt’s Darkest Journey” by Candice Millard: This non-fiction book recounts President Roosevelt’s dangerous expedition down one of Amazonia’s deadliest rivers.
3. “Mr. Pip’s Double Cross: The True Story of the Dazzling Amazon Jungle Heist” by Matthew Hart: This book narrates the true story of a brilliant conman who pulled off a million-dollar heist in the Amazon rainforest.

Exploring Amazonia’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

A visit to Amazonia offers the opportunity to explore these cinematic locations firsthand. Here are some must-see places:

1. Manaus: Known as the gateway to the Amazon, this city features in numerous films and books. Important landmarks include the Amazon Theatre and the Meeting of Waters.
2. Amazon River: The world’s second-longest river has been a popular setting in many films. A boat tour provides a firsthand experience of this cinematic location.
3. Amazon Rainforest: Covering much of northwestern Brazil and extending into Colombia, Peru, and other South American countries, the world’s largest rainforest has served as the backdrop for countless stories.
4. Madidi National Park: Located in Bolivia, this park is one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth. It was a prominent filming location in “Yasuni,” a short documentary about Amazonia.
5. Pacaya–Samiria National Reserve: Located in the Peruvian Amazon, this reserve featured in the film “Amazonia: The Awakening of Florestania.”

Where to Sleep in Amazonia

Depending on your budget, Amazonia offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels.

Luxury

1. Aria Amazon Cruises: These luxury cruises offer high-end accommodation and guided tours of the Amazon river and rainforest.
2. Tropical Manaus Ecoresort: Located on the banks of the Rio Negro, this five-star resort offers luxury accommodation with easy access to the Amazon Rainforest.
3. Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica: This eco-luxe lodge is nestled in the Peruvian rainforest, offering luxury accommodation and guided rainforest tours.

Budget

1. Manaus Jungle Hostel: Located in the heart of the Amazon, this budget-friendly hostel offers dormitory-style accommodation and guided tours.
2. Go Inn Manaus: This budget hotel in Manaus offers comfortable accommodation and easy access to local attractions.
3. Amazon Tupana Jungle Lodge: This budget lodge offers rustic accommodation and a range of activities, including fishing and jungle trekking.

Where to Eat in Amazonia

Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge, Amazonia offers a range of dining options, offering a taste of the local cuisine.

Budget:

1. Banzeiro: Located in Manaus, this restaurant offers a variety of traditional Amazonian dishes at affordable prices.
2. Tambaqui De Banda: Another budget-friendly option in Manaus, famous for its grilled tambaqui, a local fish.
3. Canto da Peixada: Located in Belém, this restaurant is renowned for its delicious and affordable seafood dishes.

Luxury:

1. Kiwa: Situated in the luxury Juma Amazon Lodge, this restaurant offers a varied menu of Amazonian and international cuisine.
2. Caxiri Manaus: This high-end restaurant in Manaus is known for its fusion of traditional Amazonian ingredients and modern cooking techniques.
3. Remanso do Bosque: Located in Belém, this restaurant is famous for its innovative dishes that showcase the flavors of the Amazon.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

To make the most of your cinematic journey in Amazonia, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Manaus

• Visit the famous Amazon Theatre and the bustling Adolpho Lisboa Market.
• Enjoy a traditional Amazonian dinner at Banzeiro or Caxiri Manaus.

Day 2: Manaus to Amazon Rainforest

• Take a boat ride on the Amazon River, visiting the Meeting of Waters along the way.
• Arrive at your rainforest lodge and enjoy a guided tour of the surrounding rainforest.

Day 3: Exploring the Amazon Rainforest

• Spend the day exploring the rainforest, with activities such as jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, and visiting local communities.
• Enjoy a traditional dinner at your lodge.

Day 4: Amazon Rainforest to Madidi National Park

• Travel to Madidi National Park in Bolivia.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the park and its diverse wildlife.

Day 5: Madidi National Park to Pacaya–Samiria National Reserve

• Travel to the Pacaya–Samiria National Reserve in Peru.
• Spend the day exploring the reserve, known for its rich biodiversity.

Day 6: Departure

• Return to Manaus for your departure, bringing your cinematic journey through Amazonia to an end.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Amazonia is steeped in local myths and legends, many of which have inspired various films and books. One of the most famous is the legend of the “Curupira,” a mythical creature believed to protect the forest and its animals.

Another intriguing legend is that of the “Boitatá,” a fiery serpent said to protect the forest from wildfires. The “Yacuruna” is a mythical water creature believed to live in underwater palaces and often features in local storytelling.

The legend of the “Mapinguari,” a giant sloth-like creature thought to roam the rainforest, has been popularized in films like “The Lost City of Z” and “The River.”

Hidden Gems in Amazonia

Beyond the well-trodden path, Amazonia is teeming with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Some lesser-known yet equally fascinating locations include:

1. Marajó Island: The world’s largest fluvial island is unspoiled and rich in wildlife. It’s also home to the Marajóara, an indigenous culture known for its intricate ceramics.
2. Mount Roraima: This tabletop mountain on the Brazil-Venezuela border has inspired various films and books, including Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Lost World.”
3. Serra do Divisor National Park: This remote park in the Acre state of Brazil offers a unique opportunity to experience Amazonia’s untouched beauty.
4. Belém: Often overlooked by tourists, this city at the mouth of the Amazon River is known for its vibrant markets and historic architecture.
5. Uakari Lodge: This floating eco-lodge located in the Mamirauá Sustainable Development Reserve is a hidden gem offering immersive experiences in the Amazonian rainforest.

What to Pack for a Trip to Amazonia

When preparing for your trip to Amazonia, consider the following essentials:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for the humid climate, and a waterproof jacket or poncho for frequent rain showers.
• Sturdy, waterproof footwear for walking in the rainforest.
• Bug spray and a mosquito net to protect against insects.
• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun.
• A first aid kit with essential medicines.
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• Travel documents, including your passport, visa (if required), and travel insurance.
• A power adapter compatible with Brazilian outlets (type N).

Transportation Tips

Getting around Amazonia’s vast region can be challenging but is part of the adventure. Here are some tips:

• Boat Travel: Traveling by boat is a common way to navigate the Amazon River and reach remote areas of the rainforest.
• Air Travel: For long distances, consider domestic flights which connect major cities like Manaus and Belém.
• Public Transportation: In cities like Manaus and Belém, buses and taxis are readily available. However, public transportation is limited in remote parts of Amazonia.
• Guided Tours: Consider booking guided tours for a hassle-free experience. They often include transportation, accommodation, meals, and activities.

Conclusion

Amazonia’s cinematic allure extends beyond the silver screen. From its lush rainforest to its vibrant cities, the region offers a wealth of experiences for film buffs and travel enthusiasts alike. This guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you plan an unforgettable trip. So pack your bags, bring your adventurous spirit, and get ready to embark on a cinematic journey through the heart of Amazonia!